PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Loans
Car Loan
Compare Car Loans with Jerry
Jerry's Expert Advice
Car Loan Guides
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
Is the Acura Integra a good first car?
I’m buying my first car and have been looking at a used Acura Integra. Is it a good car for someone who’s a new driver?
Andrea Barrett · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If you’re not deterred by the price of an
Acura
, the Acura Integra
is a decent option for a first car—but there are newer and better alternatives. There are relatively few compact sports cars with the same degree of longevity, style, and popularity as the Integra, though. It was produced from 1986 to 2001 and underwent several redesigns before departing from the U.S. market—but it’s making a comeback in 2023.
However, the decades-old Integra may be a below-average choice for a first car for several reasons:
- It’s old: Older cars have fewer safety features, and finding replacement parts can be tricky.
- Sub-par gas mileage: Its fuel efficiency was good at the time, but newer vehicles have much better gas mileage.
- Higher maintenance costs: While Acura and Honda still exist, finding replacement parts on older models is more difficult.
- Expensive insurance: It’s an outdated model still popular with thieves, translating to higher insurance costs.
- Moderate power: The 130- to 140-horsepower base engine is good enough for young drivers, but it won’t thrill those looking for performance.
Despite its age, the Integra still has a lot going for it—like its excellent reliability and build quality. And you can get your hands on one for relatively cheap, sometimes less than $2,500.
That said, some model years are more reliable than others. The 1990–1992 and 1995–1996 models were given a 4/5
NHTSA safety rating
but had more recalls than other years. View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance for Your Car
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies
